Kirklees Together

We have been supporting and celebrating local care leavers with a series of special events.

Care leavers are young people in care who are moving towards a more independent life. They often face more barriers than other young people and so the council, with the support of partner organisations, does a huge amount of work to help them achieve the best possible outcomes.

There are around 420 care leavers in the district, many of whom took part in the varied activities on offer.

In addition to regular support, such as emotional wellbeing drop-ins and football sessions, the council – along with partner organisations including Huddersfield Town Foundation, Meltham Quilters and Asda – organised events including cookery, sport, roller skating, a movie evening and a trip to Flamingo Land.

There was also a half-day session with West Yorkshire Police and West Yorkshire Fire Service, where care leavers enjoyed activities and received information about careers and community safety.

The most notable was the Achieve Awards ceremony, which saw young people aged 17 and above receive certificates to recognise their efforts and talents.

The Achieve Awards were held at Huddersfield Town Hall, which was lit up blue in recognition of Care Leavers Week. It included performances from young people, magic from Luke Lenihan, inspirational speeches by care leavers and a speech by Matt from Loud Speaker, an organisation who help young people to gain confidence and speak professionally.

The awards were attended by Cllr Nosheen Dad, Mayor of Kirklees, and Cllr Viv Kendrick, Cabinet member for Children’s Services.

Cllr Kendrick said:

“Looking after our care leavers is not just a responsibility, it’s a privilege. These young people deserve every opportunity to thrive and succeed, and we are committed to supporting them every step of the way.

“This is a key priority for all of us in Kirklees. Working in partnership with fantastic local organisations, we offer a well-rounded support service that enriches the lives of everyone in our care. We want all of them to become independent, successful and to fulfil their potential as they transition into adulthood.”

Council staff have taken part in recent Park Runs to raise funds for the Huddersfield Town Foundation charity, which supports activities for care experienced young people.

There was also a landmark event involving the Kirklees Parenting Board, which oversees services and support for those in care. The board, made up of councillors, council officers and partners, invited young people to ‘take over’ their latest meeting, ensuring they heard first-hand accounts of what it’s like to be in care so that even better support is provided in the future.

Cllr Kendrick, who chairs the meeting, added:

“It’s vital that we hear the voices of young people and make sure their views help to shape our services.

“They did a fantastic job of sharing experiences and giving a deeper understanding of how other people’s decisions impact on their lives. We were moved by their contribution and very proud of them all.”